“Situation”:
United States is attempting to increase energy independence by expanding
offshore oil and gas development and use of alternative energy sources;
and, at the same time, reduce carbon and other emissions. These
initiatives will create potentially significant impacts on the energy
industry and transportation of energy cargoes by international shipping
and United States domestic shipping.

“Challenge”:
The maritime transportation and energy industries should produce and
provide to consumers worldwide, readily available and reliable energy
resources at the lowest possible cost, while enjoying a reasonable
profit. This must be accomplished in a safe, secure and environmentally
responsible manner but also in a way that facilitates commerce to
minimize transportation costs.

“Priorities”:
Overall, what are the priority regulatory issues most affecting marine
transportation and energy development which must be coordinated and
managed together by government and the private sector, to meet current
and long-term energy and maritime transportation needs in a safe, secure
and environmentally sound manner and also facilitate commerce?

THIS CONFERENCE
will examine through a structured approach, the current state and future
need and validity relative to the
Priorities
and provide an assessment of the impact of the energy and financial
markets on energy transportation by international shipping.

Session 1:

Setting the Scene
Part 1Keynote Speakers
Government and Industry

Themes: Senior leaders representing
government and industry describe their view of the “Situation” from a
broad policy perspective, and potential barriers to meeting the
“challenge”.

Theme - The US Gulf is providing several new sources of
oil while at the same time presenting significant logistical challenges.
The transportation industry is taking steps to meet these challenges in
a safe and economical way. Carbon reduction targets will also impact US
refining demand and impact shipping.